MINNEAPOLIS — For children, having a doll that looks like them can be the most meaningful gift.
That's why the Greater Mount Vernon Church is hosting its third annual toy drive for culturally relevant dolls and toys to donate to the Salvation Army. The church is specifically looking for African American and Hispanic American dolls and toys, to make sure that children can identify with their toys.
“This is an opportunity to help children learn to be open-minded, have an awareness of the society we live in, and be accepting of differences in our daily lives,” Pastor John L. Bowen Sr. said in a release. “We wanted to help address the fact that there is often a shortage of culturally appropriate toys when helping those in need at Christmas.”
So far, the church has collected about 500 gifts and church members are aiming for more than 1,000. The Salvation Army said that they distribute gifts to about 13,500 children for the holidays, and they still need more toys.
If you would like to donate a holiday gift — drop off new, unwrapped toys at the church at 1800 N. Dupont Ave., Minneapolis before Dec. 10. The hours are Wednesday 9 a.m.-1 p.m. and 6-8 p.m., Thursday 9 a.m.- 1 p.m., Friday 6-8 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. and Sunday 12:30-2 p.m.
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